Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Go Between Your Legs

Sammy is big. In fact, whenever you take her out and about, she gets all the attention in the world due to her large size. Yet, Sammy’s size does not match up with her quiet and sensitive personality. In fact, Sammy has recently begun to lay in between your legs when you sit down. To you, it feels like Sammy is using your legs as a protective blanket. Yet, you have begun to wonder if that is the real reason why Sammy is always around you. Now, you have decided to look further into Sammy's behavior, so you may understand Bernese Mountain Dogs better.

Bernese Mountain dogs are loving animals. In fact, Sammy is always going to be affectionate towards you and she is always going to want to be near you, whether you go to the park, on a run, or even just to the kitchen to make dinner. The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is actually quite touchy and feely. This means that they are always going to want to sit by your side and they are always going to want to lean against you. If you are interested in getting this breed of dog or if you are trying to get to know your dog better, just know that physical touch is the best way for communication. You may even be wondering why Sammy would go in between your legs more often than her Golden Retriever companion, Jack. All dogs love to be petted and they love to be by their owner’s side because you are their pack leader. Specifically, Bernese Mountain Dogs stick to their owners like glue. It is absolutely no surprise that Sammy sits in between your legs more often than Jack. 

If you noticed your dog doing this, take it as a compliment! Your dog loves being around you. Yet, sometimes physical contact can mean more than just love, even though Bernese Mountain Dogs love to be with you. When your dog goes in between your legs, the physical touch of your legs against their body feels extremely safe. Your two legs act as barriers for your dog and they know you are going to protect them, especially since Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be shy. This could occur when they are fearful of another dog or another person or if they are nervous about a certain social situation. Sammy may also go in between your legs so she may receive your attention. They may want you to pet them, feed them, or shower them with their specific needs. Every behavioral trait your dog displays is for a reason and luckily, this behavior for the most part is not too negative. 

If you have a Bernese Mountain dog, you are probably going to have to deal with this behavioral trait. Your dog may always want to be around you, she may always want physical affection, and she may even use this behavioral trait in times of need. Although this behavior is not a bad thing, you want to make sure that you do not enable your dog. If you constantly let your dog hide in between your legs, her shyness may get the best of her. When you are at home and she is hanging out with you, there is no harm in letting this behavior encourage bonding between you two.

Yet, if you are out and about and Sammy runs in between your legs because she is fearful of a situation, you need to show her that she is okay. Each time Sammy is fearful, you need to give her reassurance to help her understand that she is safe and does not need to hide in between your legs. Sometimes dogs will also use this behavior when they have anxiety. If your dog is in between your legs, look at her and see what her reaction is like. Is she wagging her tail because she wants you to pet her? Does she look scared? Every part of her body language will give you a clue about her behavior. If your dog has anxiety or fear, you need to reassure her and calm her in the best way that you can. You may even need to remove yourself and your dog from the situation. 

Allow your dog to bond with you in whichever way that you feel comfortable. It is important to let your dog’s behavior foster a loving relationship. If your dog is fearful or filled with anxiety, you can train your dog. Training can help your dog with social situations and it can also give your dog reassurance. A few training techniques that are helpful are the basic commands of sit or stay, and you can even teach your dog the game of red light and green light. Bernese Mountain Dogs are excellent listeners and any bit of training can help them achieve a feeling of safety and love, especially when they are looking up to you in the process. 

Sammy is an amazing dog and is absolutely adorable due to her large size. Although Sammy is large, she is still very shy. In fact, in most social situations, Sammy gets nervous around other dogs and people. Although it seems cute at the moment, you want to show Sammy that she is okay and that she is safe. This can make all the difference in the world for your relationship with Sammy. It may also be necessary for you to take Sammy to see a vet or have a behaviorist come to visit if you cannot control the behavior on your own.